Developing Leaders

Young industry professionals are encouraged to build their leadership potential by participating in AGC Georgia’s Young Leadership Program (YLP). The group is nationally respected and one of AGC Georgia’s flagship services. Two members serve on the advisory board of AGC of America’s sister program, Construction Leadership Council (CLC), and efforts are underway to host the 2016 CLC Leadership Development Conference in Atlanta.

In late 2014, the 19-member YLP governing council began updating the program’s strategic plan. Feedback was gathered via an online survey sent to more than 140 members representing nearly 80 firms. Moving forward, YLP will focus resources on the following areas:

• Education – developing topics and participating in leadership and professional development programs

• Social – creating a close-knit community by leveraging connections between members

• Communication – helping welcome new members through mentorships with longtime participants and keeping members informed

• Charitable – volunteering time on service projects and fundraising activities

As program members look to the future with the new plan, their recent accomplishments are to be commended. Over 500 industry representatives participated in professional development learning sessions and networking activities organized by YLP during the past 12 months. Another 275 individuals participated in the 16th Annual Golf Classic. After expenses, this fundraiser deposited $60,000 in AGC Georgia’s Foundation! These proceeds replenish reserves YLP uses to help individuals and organizations throughout the year.

A special bond between Emily Bowman and YLP members is possible because of donations collected at previous golf tournaments. This promising college student was struck by a drunk driver, and now requires constant care. In 2013, YLP renovated her home to meet Emily’s handicap-accessible needs. In the summer of 2014, YLP learned about the cramped space Emily used for physical therapy. The group helped build a therapy room and redesign her deck. Seeing Emily thrive in her new space was reward enough; however, YLP members learned earlier this year the project earned an AGC in the Community Award at AGC of America’s annual convention.

The program’s largest charitable works project for the past year included building a deck and therapy room at the Bowman’s home. Project supporters and their families participated in ribbon-cutting festivities. Council members attending AGC of America’s convention proudly accepted an AGC in the Community Award for their efforts.

YLP coordinated the contributions of more than $67,000 from June 2014 to May 2015.

$10,628 in toys and clothing to children in hospital’s care during the holidays

Truck loads of toys provided by member firms

$8,800 to offset travel expenses for Georgia high school students participating in the national SkillsUSA competition

$4,500 to Wreaths Across America, a charity organizing the laying of Christmas wreaths on gravesites in National Cemeteries

$25,000 for renovations to Emily Bowman’s Home

$1,200 to the construction management program fundraiser

Becca’s Project

$1,500 to Ingram‐Pye Elementary for new playground

$4,000 to retrofit home for handicap accessible needs

$1,000 to help cure the mystery of lupus

$1,000 to the construction management program fundraiser

$4,800 to provide shelter for those in need

$2,500 to the recreation therapy department

$1,200 in food for 125 people

$1,000 to support treatment, travel, and housing for families

$500 in support of volunteer appreciation activities